House Urges Swift Passage of Women’s Special Seats Bill

The House of Representatives has called for the expedited passage of the Special Seats Bill for Women by both chambers of the National Assembly.

The call followed a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. Jesse Onuakalusi, Lagos Lawmaker during Thursday’s plenary.

The proposed Special Seats Bill has remained a focal point for advocates seeking greater inclusion of women in politics. Despite making up nearly half of Nigeria’s population and contributing significantly to national development, women occupy less than five percent of elective positions across all tiers of government.

Hon. Onuakalusi described the situation as a democratic deficit, stressing that the lack of adequate female representation undermines inclusive governance and balanced policy formulation needed for national growth.

He said increased women’s representation in governance leads to significant improvements in healthcare, education, social welfare, and economic development, thereby strengthening national cohesion and sustainable development.

Lawmakers, after deliberation, adopted the motion and urged colleagues across both chambers to support the bill’s passage, noting that it requires a two-thirds constitutional majority.

The House emphasised that increased female representation would strengthen democratic institutions and promote broader national development.